Engelbert calls for Britain to get behind him as he flies the flag for the nation this May at the 57th Eurovision Song Contest in Baku, Azerbaijan in front of an estimated 120 million viewers worldwide. The song he will be performing (to be announced) will be recorded in London, Los Angeles and Nashville. It will be produced by Grammy award-winning Martin Terefe (James Morrison, KT Tunstall, Mary J Blige) and written by Martin Terefe and Ivor Novello winning Sacha Skarbek (Adele, James Blunt co-writer ‘You’re Beautiful’, Lana Del Rey)

In an illustrious career spanning over 45 years, Britain’s own Engelbert Humperdinck has sold over 150 million records worldwide, received four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe for Entertainer of the Year, 63 gold and 24 platinum records and is one of only a handful of artists with a star on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Las Vegas Walk of Fame. To this day, Engelbert has remained a global star, he is often on the road and in the past year alone he has performed in major venues in the UK, Russia, Netherlands, Belgium, Romania and Israel.

Katie Taylor, BBC Head of Entertainment and Events, says: "Not since the 70s have we had such an established international musical legend represent the nation. We couldn't be more delighted. Engelbert's experience leaves us in no doubt that he will be able to deliver a standout performance in front of 120 million viewers worldwide."

Derek McLean, BBC Creative Director Entertainment, says: “Engelbert has an incredible musical history and heritage, especially in the UK and Europe. He’s working with some of the best people in music to come up with the UK’s song for this year’s Eurovision. We’re very proud to have him on board.”

Engelbert Humperdinck added “It’s an absolute honour to be representing my country for this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. When the BBC approached me, it just felt right for me to be a part of an institution like Eurovision. I’m excited and raring to go and want the nation to get behind me!”

The Eurovision Song Competition will take place on Saturday, 26 May in Baku, Azerbaijan, broadcast live on BBC One, with commentary by Graham Norton.

Watch Englebert Humperdinck perform his classic hit 'Release Me' below: